Examined 32 toy libraries in Sweden, England, Canada, and Australia to identify similarities and differences on program model, sponsorship and location, program goals, participants, staffing, toys and materials, program operation, perceived effects, and current concerns. Identifies trends related to the role of toy libraries in meeting family and…

A well-conceived and effective faculty development program should focus on individual as well as institutional development, so that the environment encourages and supports both individuals and groups. Eleven institutional and four individual and group strategies for making development efforts effective are outlined. (MSE)

This paper discusses the importance of interagency coordination in developing services for young children with handicaps and their families. It suggests strategies to improve the functioning of interagency coordinating councils by considering council membership, role definition, goal commitment, vision of the early intervention system, and use of…

Presents survey results of 183 teachers in 13 elementary schools regarding read-aloud practices, stated benefits of reading aloud, favorite titles selected for reading aloud (grades k-6), and recommendations for planning read-aloud sessions. (NH)

Describes ocular and other complications of diabetes that orientation and mobility instructors should consider in determining the most appropriate mobility training for persons with diabetes who are visually impaired. Compares the benefits of using dog guides and long canes in dealing with these various complications. (Author/CR)

Shares knowledge about the administrative audience, what the authors wish they had known when they were directors of writing centers and writing programs. Addresses how they could have negotiated for more dollars, more space, more options for expanding and improving services. Notes that administrators are part of the institution and can be…

Notes how the family literacy movement, which emphasizes respect for diversity and the cultural heritage of participants, is gaining momentum. Considers how the art of storytelling provides an excellent vehicle for promoting and enhancing language and literacy development within families. (SG)

Examines principles to consider when evaluating the impact of outdoor-based experiences, including developing a rationale for the evaluation, determining the emphasis of the evaluation, and applying appropriate criteria to the evaluation process. Discusses difficulties associated with control groups, sampling bias, time period of evaluation, and…

Offers reminders and tips for improving interpretive walks, including having a theme, drawing on basic teaching methods, drawing on all senses rather than just talking, being a role model to show how learning can be fun, using picture books, using tools of the trade to encourage visitors to learn for themselves, and playing games. (PVD)

Recognizes the critical role parents play in helping young children become successful readers and writers. Describes how the Even Start program encourages families to host a party for a small group of friends and family in their home to help families gain access to the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to create a literate environment in…

The purpose of this guide is to provide clear, practical advice on reporting the results of an evaluation of an educational program or practice ("intervention"). Specifically, this is a guide for researchers, and those who sponsor and use research, to reporting the results of "impact" studies--that is, studies that evaluate the…

The "Local Technology Plan Guidelines" serve as the basis for the Department's annual technology data collection. This report takes a look at the data submitted by 344 school districts, examining the progress Massachusetts school districts are making in meeting the recommended guidelines. In doing so, it will gauge the degree to which…

Access to higher education remains a challenge for many students who face academic and informational barriers to college entry. This guide targets high schools and school districts, and focuses on effective practices that prepare students academically for college, assist them in completing the steps to college entry, and improve their likelihood…

We will never teach all our students to read if we do not teach our most at-risk students to read. Another way to say this is: "Getting to 100% requires going through the bottom 20%." Teaching all students to read requires a school level system for early identification of at-risk students and a school level system for providing those students with…

This manual is designed to help advocates, including parents, obtain special education for children with disabilities residing in New Jersey. It explains the requirements of the federal statute governing special education--the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)--and the federal regulations implementing IDEA, as well as the state…